Response from Quebec Minister to Loto Quebec's critics

Finance minister points to European examples of regulated online gambling

The decision by the Quebec provincial government to support a Loto-Quebec move into the online gambling sector was in the headlines again this week as public health officials appealed for a one year moratorium on the decision and an investigation into possible detrimental effects.

'It's not for monetary reasons that Sweden and Great Britain and the northern European countries have gone into [Internet gambling],' he said. 'The role of the state is to channel gambling in a responsible manner.'

Public health authorities see online gambling as a new source of problem gambling.

'We respect their opinion,' the minister said. 'They are saying there is a risk there. Our role in government is to take into account all points of view.'